Munich – The Cultural Heart of Germany

Munich

Munich, Germany is full of popular beer gardens, magnificent public spaces and buildings with ornate stucco facades. Tradition and modernism rub shoulders in Munich as in no other German city.

The small town charm of many Munich districts stands in great contrast with the hectic pace of big city life on the Marienplatz or along the sidewalks of Maximilian Street. Quite aside from the famed Oktoberfest held each autumn, this city on the Isar River offers visitors an abundance of architectural treasures.

During the course of the last century, Munich has become one of Germany’s most important media and business centres. Munich’s unique combination of Blackberries and lederhosen have made the city one of the most popular business and tourism destinations in Europe.

From Petersbergl to Munich. Monks settled on the Isar in the eighth century, building Tegernsee Monastery at the place they called Petersbergl. The crypt of the church of St. Peter, Munich’s oldest, dates back to the early Middle Ages. In the twelfth century Heinrich the Lion, Duke of Saxony and Bavaria, founded the city of Munich around St. Peter’s. Under the command of this powerful duke, Munich became an important city. It was the official residence of the Bavarian dukes from 1255 and named the capital city of Bavaria in 1506.

A square for football celebrations. Just as Munich is the heart of Bavaria, the Marienplatz is the heart of the city, the most popular and best known of the many squares in Munich. The new city hall is on the north side of the square, with the old city hall, the Rathaus, on its eastern side. St. Peter’s is just a few meters away. The famous and beloved Bayern Munchen football team has traditionally celebrated its championship titles on the Marienplatz with thousands of enthusiastic fans.

Munich conjures up images of Oktoberfest, the Hofbrauhaus, shady beer gardens and people wearing lederhosen and dirndl. All of these images are accurate, but Munich is more than simply a bastion of Bavarian traditions. The city is one of Germany’s most important publishing and television centres, for example. Many publishing houses, radio and television stations, film production companies and music studios are headquartered in the media city of Munich. As a result, Munich is home to more actors, artists, TV producers and stars than any other German city.

Summer residence of the Bavarian monarchs. The celebrities of the past, the Bavarian dukes, princes and kings, also resided in Munich. Their legacy has left the city with a number of fascinating historical drawcards. There are so many to choose from, visitors may have a hard time deciding which of the many sights to head for first.

Nymphenburg Palace and its park should be near the top of the list. The former summer residence of the Bavarian rulers, Schloss Nymphenburg is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bavaria today. Its elaborate interior furnishings, including King Ludwig I’s almost surreally ornate “Gallery of Beauties” should not be missed.

Symbol of Munich. The twin towers of Munich’s most famous symbol, the Frauenkirche (Cathedral of Our Lady), are 99 metres tall. Duke Sigismund laid the cornerstone of Munich’s most beloved church on 9 February 1468. Today the Frauenkirche is officially the Cathedral Church of the Archbishops of Munich and Freisling. Its towers can be seen for miles around, is in part because the city administration prohibits the construction of any building within Munich’s central ring taller than 99 metres. New construction of taller buildings further away from the centre has been permitted in the past, but is currently under review. Only the south tower of the Frauenkirche can be climbed. It offers a unique view of Munich, its surroundings, and the nearby Alps, which on clear days appear to be close enough to touch.




“Small Luxury Hotels of the World” Features New Ski Adventures

Kristiania Lech Hotel - Austria
Kristiania Lech Hotel – Austria

Looking for luxury hotel this winter but something without the large crowds and a little more intimate?

We are featuring three luxury hotels from Europe, New Zealand and the U.S., offered by Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), so choose from a dazzling choice of ski and winter breaks to enjoy your luxury getaway in style.

Small Luxury Hotels of the World features an unrivaled portfolio of some of the world’s finest small independent hotels, consisting of over 520 hotels in more than 70 countries,

These luxury hotels also feature a wide range of action packed activities, including glacier tours, heli-skiing and hiking. Wanting some more relaxing, then try several rejuvenating options, including après ski fun, spa treatments and horse riding.

Europe:

Kristiania Lech Hotel, Lech am Arlberg, Austria – www.slh.com/kristiania

Situated in stunning alpine scenery and only a short walk from Lech, the upmarket ski resort, Kristiania Lech Hotel has a very friendly and warm feel. The vibrant resort of St. Anton is also nearby for those seeking a livelier après ski. Rooms are luxurious and very classic and have beautiful views across the village of Lech. Kristiania offers a high level of personalized and flexible service. From ski guides to demonstrate the runs and local mountains, to a ski and leisure consultant, you will be told all the local secrets and discover the best places to see throughout your stay. Lech boasts an excellent range of slopes to suit all levels. Slightly more adventurous skiers can try heli-skiing at the resort, which is which is the only place in Austria where it is permitted. Rejuvenate after an action filled day with a spa treatment or simply lay back on the sun deck with one of the many types of malts from the hotel’s well-stocked cellar. Kristiania Lech offers SLH guests a Silver Ski Escape package for friends and family to enjoy the renowned snow in Lech.

Silver Ski Package – Book seven nights at Kristiania Lech hotel between 2 December 2011 and 22 April 2012 and receive daily breakfast and a five course gourmet dinner, champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries and daily newspaper, based on two people sharing.

Price from €380 per room, per night based on double occupancy.

 

United States:

Castle Hill Resort and Spa, Cavendish, USA – www.slh.com/castlehill

A smart 20th century governor’s mansion located in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains and listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Castle Hill Resort and Spa is an elegant property with noticeable period features. This family-friendly resort offers a magnificent variety of unique snow sports such as snow tubing and Nordic skiing, challenging terrain (for the more daring skier!) and a park for boarders to spend their time.

Latest Offer – Book a minimum of 3 days at Castle Hill Resort and Spa between 20 November 2011 to 30 April 2012 and receive daily breakfast, one four-course dinner for 2 (alcoholic drinks not included) and a two-day ticket to Okemo for two people. Price from USD $999 per room, per 3 night stay, exclusive of tax.

 

New Zealand:

Blanket Bay, Queenstown, New Zealand – www.slh.com/blanketbay

SLH offers skiing opportunities all year round – and come summer, New Zealand is the place to head for excellent skiing from June onwards. Known as one of the world’s most secluded hideaways, Blanket Bay is at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by breathtaking views of the Humboldt Mountains. For the fearless skier looking for a challenge, heli-skiing is available from the hotel between June – September. The lodge arranges a vast array of activities, tours and adventures to ensure guests can experience the beauty of this area.




Rome, Italy – The Magic of Trastevere

Rome Italy - Trastevere area

The Trastevere area of Rome Italy, is well known for its restaurants, clubs, theaters, arts and its famous narrow cobbled alleyways.

In the evening, all of the cafes and restaurants tables spill out over to the pavement, especially in the area of Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere. The morning is better to appreciate the antique charm of Trastevere’s characteristic narrow alleyways.

Trastevere is the district that lays on the right bank of the Tiber. It was called “Trans Tiberem” (across the Tiber) and it was considered a precarious region.

It belonged to the Etruscans until Rome conquered it again and get back in control of both banks of the river. “Pons Sublicius” bridge (from Latin: “bridge built on piles”) was the only one way from Trastevere to the city (Rome). With the Emperor Augustus this area soon began to be considered part of the city.

During the Republic era in 509, the number of sailors and fishermen making a living from the river had increased, and many had taken up residence in Trastevere.

Later, with the wealth of the Imperial Age, luxury villas and gardens were constructed on the hillside of Trastevere. To name a few: Clodia, (Catullus’ “friend”) and Julius Caesar (his garden villa, the Horti Caesaris). The flat land below was occupied by the houses of the poor and small shops. Some of which are still there today!

Trastevere grew in a network of small, curly streets in the Middle Age because of structures on the front of buildings that left no space for carriages to pass.This is why a strong contrast between large houses for rich people and small houses for poor people are still creating such a contrast.

Until the 15th century Trastevere streets had no pavement. Bricks were used first replaced by sampietrini (cobble stones) in a second time.

The church of Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the oldest churches in Rome, perhaps the first to ever host an open ceremony. This is the queen of all churches in Trastevere. This basilica became the focus of devotion to the Virgin Mary by its people. It is believed that perhaps it was in this church Mother of God was worshiped in Rome. In the piazza, one can admire the Octagonal fountain which has now become a meeting point. Along the years the church has been altered with modifications, but despite of the 18th century additions, Santa Maria has retained its medieval character.

Today this area still has its own style due to the narrow cobbled streets built in the medieval era. At night, both italians and tourists gather together around its many restaurants and pubs. Trastevere is attracting tourists, locals, artists, foreign expats, and many famous people and it is incredibly charming.

The area is home to John Cabot University, a private American University. Also to the American Academy in Rome, and the Rome campus of the Thomas More College of Liberal Arts. The Canadian University of Waterloo School of Architecture (between the months of September and December), and the American Pratt Institute School of Architecture therefore serving as a temporary home to an International student body.

In the sixties and seventies, the American musicians/composers Frederic Rzewski and Richard Teitelbaum, of the group Musica Elettronica Viva, lived in Via della Luce. Sergio Leone, the director of Spaghetti Westerns, grew up in Viale Glorioso (there is a marble plaque to his memory on the wall of the apartment building), and went to a Catholic private school in the neighborhood.

As you can see Trastevere is the real heart of Rome!

Author: Sarah Dudleymore



Antique Shopping in Brussels

Poor Brussels. The attention it gets as capital of the European Union and home base of NATO suggests a city of functionaries and bureaucrats: stolid, good for business (and breweries), but hardly the center of style.

That moniker belongs to Paris, of course—except among the cognoscenti, who know that Brussels, the 1,000-year-old city of a million-plus, can be more radical in fashion, more adventuresome in cuisine, and much more fun to plunder for antiques.

To go antiquing in Brussels is to bask in civility and ease—especially if you’ve ever suffered the apathy of the 2,500 dealers at Paris’s legendary Marché St.-Ouen. Stay hard by the Gothic, gilded Grand Place—a square called one of the most beautiful in the world by no less than Victor Hugo.

At the Hotel Amigo (1–3 Rue de l’Amigo, 32-2/547-4747; hotelamigo.com; doubles from $335), you’re barely a half-mile walk from the best dealers in and around the Place du Grand Sablon, also a cobbled and gabled but far more sweeping square.

For decades the premier address for fine antiques, the Place du Grand Sablon is still the site of a small weekly antiques market (all day Saturday, half a day on Sunday) that sets up in jaunty red and green–striped canvas stalls.

Here are mostly small wares of good quality but modest distinction—brass candlesticks, clocks and boxes, porcelain and silver for the table.




Murano, Italy – Luxury Glass Jewelry

Murano Italy - Glass jewelry ring

Jewelry is an incredibly subtle accent for any ensemble. What you choose to wear and how dramatically effect the way you see yourself and the way that others see you. A special piece of jewelry can either make or break your outfit. It can add the precise accent you need to compliment your attire. Your jewelry is timeless.

The timelessness of jewelry perfectly defines the very character of Murano glass jewelry. Its color, detail, designs and uniqueness surpasses the dictation of fashion trends. In a list where diamonds, emerald, and gold is included; there surely is a fine Murano glass jewelry to complete the list with.

Murano glass is more popularly known for its high-end glassware, which never fails to leave an impression of fine artistry and craftsmanship.

Murano glass was originally used to make chandeliers, wine goblets, which is why jewelries made from such material is not yet popular. However, it gives the sparkle and luminosity that it gives to exquisite glassware to its glass jewelries.

Very few people are familiar with Murano glass jewelry. All these people are drawn to its sophistication and uniquely beautiful colors and design. Hence, every piece of such jewelry will surely make a fine addition to any jewelry or accessory collection.

Murano glass is actually made using raw materials such as flux or melting agents, sodium oxide, sodium, nitrate and arsenic. It is blown at low temperatures, using the flux and other melting agents. The sodium oxide content of the glass mixture then determines how fast or how slow the glass solidifies; the more sodium oxide content the slower the glass solidifies. In the creation of the glass, nitrate and arsenic may be added to the glass mixture to make the glass surface opaque and to eliminate bubbles.

Coloring and opacifying substances are commonly used particularly in materials used for making special pieces of Murano glass jewelry such as beads and pendants. Also, the glass is specifically hand made and blown by an artisan. That explains for its uniqueness and high regards for craftsmanship. Add up the details such as enamel painting, engraving and submersion that artisans bring to every piece of jewelry and a beautiful piece of jewelry comes to life.

The colors, technique of creation and design of each piece of this jewelry created from Murano glass redefines what delicate and exquisite in jewelry is. It simply recreates the awe-effect that diamonds normally posses. On the other hand, simpler yet chic designs of Murano glass necklaces, rings and bracelets also goes well with everyday wear. Hence, the look of these glass jewelries brings style versatility and wearability under its fine list of features.

Murano glass jewelry is slowly reaching its pinnacle of production. So many designers and celebrities have grown fond to the distinct, exclusive, bracelets, pendants, rings and necklaces. See for yourself, and add a touch of elegance to your life with a noteworthy piece of Murano glass jewelry.

Author: Patty J. Matherson is a jewelry lover with an expertise in Venetian Glass Jewelry. If you would like to see a bold collection of Murano Glass Necklaces she invites you to visit Hilary Londons site.




Spectacular Tourist Attractions in London

Big Ben - London England

London England, is home to some of the world’s biggest tourist attractions. Once you’re there, it’s hard to know where to begin because there are so many things to see and do. To make sure that you leave the historical city of London having done and seen everything the city has to offer, there are plenty of sites that you must see.

One of the first spectacles that springs to mind, and one of the more modern ones, is the London Eye. The enormous ferris wheel of vision opened to the public in 1999 and despite a number skeptics that didn’t think it would catch on when it opened, it has gone on to become one of the world’s most popular tourist attractions.

Re-designed and re-built by Sir Christopher Wren in 1668, St. Paul’s Cathedral is another of London’s must see attractions. It is a breathtakingly beautiful building which is recognized today as one of Britain’s most iconic buildings.

Arguably the attraction with the most gruesome history, the Tower of London has been a prison and place of execution for London’s people in the past. It was built by William the Conqueror originally, to try and keep London’s rowdy rabble under wraps.

For the artistic types, there is of course, the Tate Modern. The modern art capital of the country and home to works from such esteemed modernists as Picasso, Matisse, Dali and perhaps most notably of all, Andy Warhol.

Buckingham Palace is possibly the most famous London attraction of them all. The official home of Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh, it’s one of the most instantly recognizable places on the planet. It is open for guided tours and is full of fantastic art works, although is not an official art gallery.

The last London spectacle that I shall mention here, but by no standards the last worth visiting, is the Natural History Museum. It was designed by Alfred Waterhouse and built in 1881 using Victorian building techniques and was originally made to house the growing amount of natural history exhibits in the British Museum and subsequently grew into the vast spectacle of a museum that it is today.

There are too many wondrous spectacles in London to list them all here, however, if you want to see them all, it will require more than just a day-trip, therefore, for your perfect trip to London, you will need the perfect hotel. There are hundreds of hotels in London, and finding the right one is as simple as finding a website that allows you to browse through them all.




Celebrate a “Hogwarts Halloween” at Ashford Castle

Celebrate a “Hogwarts Halloween” at Ashford Castle
Ashford Castle – Hogwarts Halloween

As summer winds down, before you know it Halloween will soon be here. If you are looking for an unforgettable Halloween experience, consider the amazing Ashford Castle.

Historic Ashford Castle in Ireland, is hosting a “Hogwarts Halloween” celebration. It’s a place where Harry Potter’s magical world of witches and wizards will come to life.

Ashford Castle dates back to 1228 and is located on 350 acres of County Mayo, on the shores of Lough Corrib and the River Cong in Ireland. Ashford Castle is surrounded by a spectacular backdrop of woodlands, lake, river and mountains.

Ashford Castle offers a variety of secret rooms, hidden alcoves, and mystical surroundings of secluded woodlands that make Ireland’s Ashford Castle the perfect location for magicians in the making. After all, sorcery and magic at the historic castle date back 700 years. It will be anybody’s guess what may happen at the “Hogwarts Halloween” celebration.

From October 28th through November 6th, there are two different “Hogwarts Halloween” packages to choose from:

October 28, 30; November 1, 3, 5
Noon – “Forbidden Forest” treasure hunt for entire family
3pm – Visit to the hiding place of Dingle, Ashford Castle’s resident owl (supervised)
4pm – Afternoon “Chamber of Art” painting class (supervised)
5pm – 6:30pm: Kids’ dinner in the Ardilaun Suite (supervised)
6:30pm – 9pm: Harry Potter movie evening (supervised)
From 7pm – George V Table d’Hote dinner for Mom and Dad

October 29, 31; November 2, 4, 6
Noon – “Hidden Garden” treasure hunt for entire family
3pm -”House Elves” cooking class (supervised)
4pm-5pm – Afternoon “Chamber of Witchcraft & Wizardry” (supervised)
5pm – 6pm – Kids’ dinner in the Ardilaun Suite (supervised)
6:30pm – 9pm – Harry Potter movie evening (supervised)
From 7pm – George V Table d’Hote dinner for Mom and Dad




Experience London | October 2011

London Halloween celebrations

October in London will be month like no other. Enjoy a month of spine-chilling Halloween fun that will definitely be fun for the entire family.

Historic London will offer many eerie attractions that are easy to reach using the London Sightseeing Pass (www.londonpass.com).

The London Bridge Experience and The London Tombs is a two-part attraction which takes visitors back in time to meet some creepy medieval characters, then on to The London Tombs for a terrifying encounter with the undead.

And as a special Halloween celebration the ZSL London Zoo will be transforming itself for ‘Boo at the Zoo’ with spooky stories and ghost walks to get you screaming in terror. ‘Boo at the Zoo’ will be taking place at ZSL London Zoo from Saturday 21 to Sunday 31.

While the Tower of London is home to the Crown Jewels, the famous fortress also has a macabre history as a place of torture. And, Hampton Court Palace was home to King Henry VIII, infamous for his six wives, two of which were sentenced to death by beheading. Enter their Tudor world and bring history lessons to life.

The London Sightseeing Pass gives access to all these and more. With over 55 top London attractions to choose from you can take the family on a walking tour of British films and see the famous Platform 9 3/4 from the Harry Potter films, practice your ice skills and ten pin tricks at the Queens Ice & Bowl or just have a laugh at the Cartoon Museum.

Users have priority access at the busiest sites to avoid queues, a free guidebook and over 40 additional deals and discounts, making the London Sightseeing Pass the perfect money saver and the ideal way to explore the city’s premier attractions.

A one-day London Pass costs $64 for adults and $43 for a child. A two-day London Pass costs $87 for adults ($65 for children aged between five and 15 years), three-day passes are $108 for adults and $73 for children, and a six-day option costs $143 for adults and $101 for children.

Check out all the activities on offer with the London Sightseeing Pass at www.londonpass.com. The website includes a
London map tool to plan visits, details on all the featured attractions, and comprehensive information on special offers that are exclusive to London Pass holders such as free gifts at Harrods and commission-free currency
exchange.

For additional information and to buy a London Pass visit www.londonpass.com




Medieval Atmosphere of Kong Hans Kaelder

Kong Hans Kaelder Restaurant - Copenhagen

Situated in Copenhagen in the vaulted cellar of a XIIth century building, the medieval atmosphere of the Kong Hans Kaelder has immediate appeal.

The cellar was once owned by King Hans (1455-1513), and lies in the oldest building in Copenhagen as well as is the site of the best restaurant.

The minimalist décor is illuminated by a cuisine that some people describe as “bearing the stamp of Matisse or Picasso”.

Since he took over this restaurant, chef Thomas Andersen has striven to conjure up inventive cuisine, ranking amongst the best in Scandinavia, that is indeed based on French gourmet traditions but also draws inspiration from dishes and products from further afield.

Taste delicious regional and Scandinavian products paired with exclusive products from the best suppliers in France, Spain and Italy.

Hans Christian Andersen once lived upstairs, writing Love in the Nicola Tower.




Discover the Best of Germany and Its Top Inns, Hotels

Rothenberg Germany
Rothenberg Germany

Germany is a land of extremes. In this ancient land, you’ll find geographic wonders ranging from the sand dunes of the North Friesian Islands to the towering Alps to idyllic pastoral land dotted with enchanting villages. You can visit castles, sample some of the world’s best beer and wine, explore historic sites and so much more.

Of course, you’ll want to visit Bavaria, home to Munich with its many unique towns and villages, of which Neuschwanstein is perhaps the most famous. The castle, by the same name, was the inspiration for Disney’s signature Sleeping Beauty castle.

There are plenty more interesting destinations, so consider planning a trip other regions, as well. You might want to journey to Germany’s most northerly province, Schleswig Holstein, and visit Hamburg and the surrounding area. Another idea would be to explore the Black Forest, which boasts picturesque scenery, relaxing spas and even casinos.

If you cannot make up your mind as to where to travel, let prolific travel writer Karen Brown do the work for you. On her popular website, Karen Brown’s World of Travel, she has created several different itineraries for travelers to Germany. Her suggestions include places of interest, maps, regional tips and excellent places to stay. The following hotels and inns were chosen by her readers as the top lodging choices in Germany.

Built in 1730, the Hotel Bulow Residenz in Dresden is a charming Baroque relic painted a sunny shade of yellow. Hotel Bulow is across the river from the city center, so it offers close access to Dresden’s many attractions, but is located in a quiet, peaceful setting. Elegant guest rooms range from cozier single rooms to more spacious suites decorated with antiques. Breakfasts are often served in a vine-covered courtyard. The hotel has a formal restaurant as well as an intimate piano bar in the wine cellar. The hotel was chosen by Karen Brown readers as Germany’s “Most Romantic” lodging.

A trip to Rothenberg is a bit like waking up in the middle of a fairy tale — you almost expect to see Hansel or Gretel skipping down the streets of this medieval village. A stay at the Romantik Hotel Markusturm is all part of the enjoyment of a visit to this magical town. The guest rooms, decorated by host Lilo Berger, are welcoming, comfortable and eclectic. Lilo’s husband, Stephan, creates the wonderful dinners; his wine soup and homemade beer are among the highlights. Karen Brown readers have chosen this delightful hotel as the winner of the “Warmest Welcome” award for Germany.

The Gasthaus Die Krone in the Black Forest town of Staufen is a delight. This family-run hotel is located in a pedestrian-only area, so it enjoys a quiet and peaceful spot. The exterior of the building is charming with shuttered windows, window boxes bursting with color and a mural depicting the Revolution of 1848. Guest rooms are simple and pleasing with light pine furnishings and beds topped with white duvets and fluffy pillows. The hosts are friendly and welcoming and in addition to the guest rooms, there is a restaurant where dinner is served nightly. The hotel won the Karen Brown Readers’ Choice Award for “Greatest Value” in Germany.

The Romantik Hotel Benen-Diken-Hof is an excellent spot for every type of traveler. Its location is unusual, located on a sand-dune island in Germany’s northernmost spot; the hotel is surrounded by acres of prairie land. There is a wellness center where guests can enjoy a relaxing spa treatment, as well as a sauna and swimming pool. The inn’s restaurant serves breakfast far longer than traditional breakfast hours, so you need not rise early and rush to get in the morning meal. Children will adore the hotel as there is plenty of room to run and play, and the hotel has a children’s program, baby sitting services and a room filled with toys. Hiking, fishing and golf are among the many local activities available. Karen Brown readers have chosen Hotel Benen-Diken-Hof as Germany’s best “Splendid Splurge.

Author:Tess Kirkpatrick loves writing about boutique hotels in Germany and other travel destinations.




Enjoying the Beauty of Turkey

Alanya Turkey

If you are looking for a great vacation, Turkey should be high on your list of countries to visit. The sun is always shining and the beaches are great. In the evening you can eat wonderful Turkey food and then dive into the wild nightlife.

If you just want to relax, you can spend the whole day on the beach. If you want some action, try one of the many available water sports: jet skiing, para-sailing, banana boat or simply play a fun game of beach volleyball.

Looking for something more adventurous,? Then trek into the mountains or try mountain or ravine climbing. If water is more your element, Turkey also has a lot of places for diving, sea kayaking and rafting.

The most popular Turkish destination without a doubt is Alanya. About 10 % of all tourists in Turkey are on vacation in Alanya. The reason is the combination of two wonderful beaches and the many interesting sights.

The best site many be castle hill, which divides two beaches. From the top of the hill, about 820 feet (250 meters) above the sea, there is a great view of Alanya and the surrounding country.

The Water Planet Aquapark is one of Turkey’s largest water parks and is an excellent place for children. Here they can try everything from water slides and rafting to bungee jumping and crazy golf.

Antalya is a little different than the other Turkey destinations. The city is not the typical fishing village that grew into a tourist village. The city has about 500,000 residents, so here you see more locals than tourists.

As a large city, Alanya has many shopping centers, bazaars and shopping streets. In addition, there are also many interesting sights from the Roman Empire in the city. Many are located in the old part of the city called Kaleici.

The number one golf destination in Turkey is without doubt – Belek. Eight golf courses can be found in the area. Due to its popularity, you must book several months ahead if you are going in the high season.

Belek is more than just for playing golf. Belek is also a paradise for bird lovers. The city does of course also have fine shopping and several water parks.

Kemer is a nice, little village that is surrounded by the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean. The city has a unique mix of the original Turkey and a modern tourist destination. Here are lively pedestrian streets, an elegant marina and beautiful beach promenades.

Close to the city is the ruins of Phaselis, where Alexander the Great spent his winters. In the middle of Kemer is the Moonlight Park. It’s a large park area with playground and dolphinarium. You can also find many restaurants, bars and discos.

Kusadasi offers an international feeling because of the many arriving cruise ships. Most passengers come to see the famous sight Efesos (also called Efesus) near Kusadasi. If you enjoy smart cafes and international clothing brands, Kusadasi is the city for you.

If you are looking for a romantic vacation destination, the city of Side might be the answer. In the old town you can view many Roman buildings. Stroll among the well-preserved wood and stone houses in quiet streets. Finish the day in the city theater, where concerts and theater have replaced long ago gladiator fights.

Author: Morten Elm